• Choose a departure time that suits you then hop onboard the small catamaran ferry boat that takes you to the picturesque and serene Ilha Deserta located in the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park. The journey takes about 45minutes one way as you cruise past the stunning scenery of this lagoon with barrier islands. On the journey through the channels you will see a variety of seabirds and might be able to spot some pink flamingo's too, you'll also be able to take in the native plants of this unique ecosystem.
• Once you dock at the island you are free to explore the island for as long as you wish, doing your own thing whether that's enjoying a meal at the eco-friendly Estamine restaurant where you can enjoy the best of the Algarve flavours, strolling along the 2km of boardwalk, swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing or just reading a book in the shade and listening to the waves hit the shore.
• When you're ready to go back to Faro just wait at the dock for the ferry to pick you up, there are regular crossings throughout the day.

• Round trip transport from Faro Port to Ilha Deserta in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a one way journey lasting 45minutes.
• The boat makes regular trips back and forth in the daytime dropping passengers off and picking them up again when they are ready to return.

• Be sure you pack suncream, a hat, drinks, snacks and swimwear!

• Take your own drinks and snacks if you don't plan on visiting the restaurant on the island
• Recommended to take your own sun umbrella if you need shade.

• If you dream of visiting a desert island you won't go far wrong here!
• A true gem for those who love unspoiled beaches and getting out in nature to relax, sink their toes in the sand, and listen to the sea.
• This is a trip that's suitable for the whole family.

• Despite not having many tours on TripAdvisor yet, travellers rave about this trip on GetYourGuide giving it 4.7 out of 5 stars.
• People use the following words to describe how happy they were with their trip - 'Fabulous " 'An Idyllic Spot', 'Great Views'
• They say that the ride was comfortable, clean, and there were friendly people onboard.
• Overall, everyone was very happy with the transport to the desert island.

• Visit in Winter and you're likely to find the island truly deserted!
• Visit in Spring to enjoy the beautiful wildflowers.

Hotel Pickup

• Faro > Ilha Deserta > Faro
• A 45 minute ferry ride through the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park
• Watch native seabirds including black-tailed godwit, black-winged stilt, heron, plovers, purple swamp-hen, and wigeon.
• Relax on Ilha Deserta

Porta Nova pier on Rua Comandante Francisco Manuel

The boat is wheelchair accessible.

Departure Time

Departure Point

Return Details